Hostels in Costa Rica

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Costa Rica hostels
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1212 Hostels in Costa Rica

Best Costa Rica hostels with breakfast included

Among the 1212 accommodations in Costa Rica, here are the 4 best hostels with breakfast included

Haven Hostel - Costa Rica
8.4 349 reviews

Haven Hostel

hostel, San José
Haven Hostel is located in San Pedro, just 5.5 kilometres from La Sabana Metropolitan Park and 7 kilometres from the National Stadium of Costa Rica. The hostel is situated close to the city centre, offering easy access to local attractions and amenities.
The hostel features a shared lounge and terrace, perfect for socialising with fellow travellers. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, parking, a garden, billiards, and an indoor play area.
Casajungla Hostel - Costa Rica
9.2 1030 reviews

Casajungla Hostel

hostel, Jacó
Casajungla Hostel in Jacó, Costa Rica, is a 3-minute walk from Jaco Beach, 7.4km from Rainforest Adventures Jaco, and 27.4km from Catarata Manantial de Agua Viva.
This guesthouse offers an outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, free private parking (subject to availability), a shared kitchen with fridge and freezer, air conditioning, and a vegetarian breakfast; it also provides easy access to Jaco Beach.
Gaudy's Hostel - Costa Rica
8.7 2697 reviews

Gaudy's Hostel

hostel, San José
Hostel Gaudys is situated just 2 kilometres from San José's city centre, close to the expansive La Sabana Metropolitan Park, offering easy access to both urban attractions and green spaces. The hostel has received consistently high ratings for its cleanliness, location, and overall experience.
The hostel features a range of facilities including a shared kitchen, garden, terrace, and games room, providing ample opportunity to relax and socialise. Guests can also enjoy a spa, restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and room service, making it a convenient and enjoyable stay.
Cabinas Vista Al Golffo - Costa Rica
9.2 2602 reviews

Cabinas Vista Al Golffo

hostel, Monteverde Costa Rica
Cabinas Vista Al Golffo is located in Monteverde, Costa Rica, close to the Monteverde Ecological Sanctuary and the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, making it an ideal base for exploring the region's natural wonders. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness, user experience and location.
The accommodation offers a peaceful garden and a shared lounge for relaxing. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including free Wi-Fi, a kitchen with a fridge and microwave, a restaurant, a bar, and parking.

Top cities

Best Costa Rica hostels with a locker

Luz En El Cielo Eco-b&b/hostel - Costa Rica
9.3 1609 reviews

Luz En El Cielo Eco-b&b/hostel

hostel, Montezuma
Luz En El Cielo Eco-B&B/Hostel is situated in Montezuma, just 13 kilometres from Santa Teresa and 48 kilometres from Jacó.
This family-friendly guest house offers a swimming pool, terrace, garden, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property, as well as a car rental service for exploring the surrounding area.
Casa Jade - Costa Rica
8.8 953 reviews

Casa Jade

hostel, Drake
Casa Jade is a short walk from Colorada and a 1.5-mile drive from Cocalito Beach, making it a convenient base for exploring Drake Bay. The hostel has received very good ratings for its cleanliness and user experience, and the location is considered excellent.
This family-friendly guesthouse offers a shared kitchen with a fridge and microwave, air conditioning, and a terrace and garden. Guests can enjoy free parking, free Wi-Fi, and comfortable rooms with bed linen and towels.
Arenal Backpackers Resort - Costa Rica
8.4 5786 reviews

Arenal Backpackers Resort

hostel, Fortuna
Hotel Sierra Arenal is located 3.5 kilometres from the slopes of the Arenal Volcano, a short drive from the town centre of La Fortuna, offering easy access to the area's attractions. The hotel enjoys very good ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience.
The hotel features a range of amenities including a swimming pool, a spa and a fitness centre. Guests can enjoy the tropical gardens, furnished balconies, free Wi-Fi and cable TV, private bathrooms, free daily breakfast, a tour desk and free parking.
Stray Cat Hostel - Costa Rica
8.2 6624 reviews

Stray Cat Hostel

hostel, San José
Stray Cat Hostel is located in San José, close to La Sabana Metropolitan Park and the National Stadium, making it easy to explore the city's attractions. It has received very good ratings for cleanliness and user experience, with a good location rating.
The hostel has a garden and a terrace, perfect for relaxing. Guests can enjoy a vegetarian breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free parking. There is also a 24-hour front desk, room service, and an airport shuttle service available for a fee.

Frequently asked questions about hostels in Costa Rica

  • What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit?

    For budget-conscious travellers, exploring national parks like Manuel Antonio National Park (known for its beaches and wildlife) or Corcovado National Park (renowned for its biodiversity, though requiring more travel time) offers incredible value. Hiking is free once inside, though park entrance fees apply. Staying in hostels and eating at 'sodas' (local eateries) significantly reduces costs. Free activities include surfing at Playa Tamarindo, exploring the town of La Fortuna near Arenal Volcano, or visiting local markets.
  • What are the best hostels in Costa Rica?

    Among the hostels in Costa Rica, Chillout Hostel Barrio Escalante, Eco Stay Hostel and Capital Hostel De Ciudad are the most popular ones.

  • Which airports handle most of the traffic to and from the country?

    Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) near San José and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia handle the vast majority of international flights. SJO is the larger and busier of the two, serving as the main gateway for many travellers.
  • What are the best hostels with a pool in Costa Rica?

  • What currency is needed?

    The official currency is the Costa Rican colón (CRC), but US dollars are widely accepted, particularly in tourist areas. It's advisable to have some colones on hand for smaller purchases and in areas less frequented by tourists.
  • What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Costa Rica?

    The best hostels with a jacuzzi in Costa Rica are Sleepers Sleep Cheaper Hostel, Vistas Del Sol-casa Victoria and Cabinas Del Mar.

  • How easy is it to navigate the roads?

    Driving in Costa Rica can be challenging. The road conditions vary significantly, with some routes well-maintained and others quite rough, especially in rural areas. Many roads are narrow and winding, and it's common to encounter potholes. Driving a 4x4 vehicle is recommended for exploring certain areas outside of the main cities. Using GPS navigation is highly recommended, as signage can be limited.
  • What are the best hostels for families and kids in Costa Rica?

    The best hostels for families and kids in Costa Rica are Chillout Hostel Barrio Escalante, Eco Stay Hostel and Outbox Inn.

  • How can travellers best respect local customs?

    Respectful behaviour includes learning a few basic Spanish phrases, dressing modestly when visiting churches or religious sites, and being mindful of noise levels, particularly in residential areas. Tipping is customary in restaurants and for tour guides (around 10-15%). It's also important to be aware of the 'pura vida' lifestyle – a relaxed and positive attitude – and to embrace it.
  • What are the best pet friendly hostels in Costa Rica?

  • Which traditional festivals define the spirit of the country?

    The country celebrates many vibrant festivals throughout the year. Dia de la Independencia (Independence Day) on 15 September is a significant national celebration. Fiestas patronales, local patron saint festivals, are common and vary by region and town. These often involve religious processions, bullfights (in some areas), and lively street parties. The Festival de la Luz (Festival of Lights) in San José is a spectacular parade with elaborate floats.
  • What are the best hostels with parking in Costa Rica?

    Chillout Hostel Barrio Escalante, Eco Stay Hostel and Capital Hostel De Ciudad are the best hostels with parking in Costa Rica.

  • What are the key emergency contacts for medical or safety concerns?

    For medical emergencies, dial 9-1-1. For police assistance, dial 1-1-74. It's advisable to have the contact details of your embassy or consulate readily available in case of any issues.
  • What are the best areas to spend a week?

    A week allows for exploration of multiple regions. A popular itinerary combines La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano and hot springs), Monteverde (cloud forests and zip-lining), and Manuel Antonio (beaches and wildlife). Another option could be exploring the Caribbean coast, perhaps visiting Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and Cahuita National Park.
  • What are the best areas to spend a weekend?

    For a short break, consider focusing on one area. San José offers cultural attractions and easy access to Poás Volcano National Park for a day trip. Alternatively, a weekend getaway to Manuel Antonio or La Fortuna allows for a taste of the country's natural beauty and adventure activities.
  • Are there specific regions known for great weather?

    The weather varies significantly depending on altitude and location. The Pacific coast generally has dry season from December to April and wet season from May to November. The Caribbean coast is wetter year-round. Areas in the central highlands, like the area around San José, have a more moderate climate.

Best Costa Rica hostels with air conditioning

Hostel El Pretal - Costa Rica
9.3 610 reviews

Hostel El Pretal

hostel, Liberia
Hostel El Pretal in Liberia, Guanacaste, is conveniently located a 14-kilometre drive from Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport and a 9-minute walk from the Edgardo Baltodano Briceño Stadium.
This family-friendly guesthouse offers one bedroom, one bathroom, a shared lounge, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a kitchen with fridge and microwave, on-site parking, and a terrace/balcony overlooking a garden, making it ideal for budget-conscious travellers exploring Liberia.
Argdivan Hostel - Costa Rica
9.0 2010 reviews

Argdivan Hostel

hostel, Fortuna
Argdivan Hostel is located in Fortuna, just a short distance from both La Fortuna Waterfall and Kalambu Hot Springs, making it a convenient base for exploring the area's natural wonders. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness and overall experience, ensuring a comfortable stay.
The hostel offers a range of facilities, including a shared kitchen and lounge, a terrace, a garden, and a spa. Guests can enjoy activities such as darts, bike and car rentals, and an airport shuttle service.
Planet B Hostel - Adults Only - Costa Rica
8.2 1019 reviews

Planet B Hostel - Adults Only

hostel, Manuel Antonio
Planet B Hostel, a guesthouse in Manuel Antonio, is located 1.9km from La Macha Beach and 5.3km from Manuel Antonio National Park, offering convenient access to major attractions.
This adults-only property features one air-conditioned bedroom with a wardrobe, a shared bathroom, free Wi-Fi, private parking, and a daily breakfast of pancakes and fruit, accommodating one guest.
Shipwrecked Hostel - Costa Rica
9.4 258 reviews

Shipwrecked Hostel

hostel, Uvita
Shipwrecked Hostel in Uvita is situated 3.1 km from Uvita Beach, 13 km from Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary, and 29 km from Nauyaca Waterfalls.
This budget-friendly guesthouse offers one bedroom, one bathroom, a shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi, parking, and a sun terrace; nearby attractions include the Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary and Nauyaca Waterfalls.

Best Costa Rica hostels with laundry available

Casa Pandora Hostel Women Only - Costa Rica
9.1 201 reviews

Casa Pandora Hostel Women Only

hostel, San José
Casa Pandora Hostel Women Only, a women-only guesthouse in San José, is conveniently located approximately 6 kilometres from La Sabana Metropolitan Park and 7.4 kilometres from the National Stadium.
This single-bedroom lodging offers guests a shared kitchen with a fridge and microwave, free Wi-Fi, a shared lounge, and a flat-screen TV, all within a safe and secure environment for female travellers.
Las Carmelas, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San José - Costa Rica
8.9 511 reviews

Las Carmelas, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San José

hostel, Alajuela
Las Carmelas, near Juan Santamaría International Airport in Alajuela, is conveniently located 3km from both the airport and Alejandro Morera Soto Stadium, and 30km from Poás Volcano National Park.
This excellent-rated guesthouse offers a shared kitchen with fridge and microwave, a terrace, garden, parking, 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi, and serves a vegetarian breakfast; on-site tour organisation is also available.
Escape Urbano - Costa Rica
9.0 2 reviews

Escape Urbano

hostel, Colón
Escape Urbano, a hostel in Colón, is located approximately 14.96 kilometres from Juan Santamaría International Airport, 12.07 kilometres from Parque Viva, and 43.45 kilometres from Poas National Park.
This accommodation offers rooms with private bathrooms and garden views, featuring a wardrobe, kitchenware, and a dining area, alongside a shared kitchen, lounge, and outdoor seating, with bicycle parking and hire available for exploring the surroundings.
Alpha Arenal Hostel - Costa Rica
8.9 850 reviews

Alpha Arenal Hostel

hostel, Fortuna
Alpha Arenal is a hostel situated in Fortuna, just 3.5 miles from La Fortuna Waterfall and 2.9 miles from Kalambu Hot Springs, offering a convenient base to explore the area's natural wonders. It has received very good user ratings for its cleanliness and a fantastic location rating, making it a popular choice for travellers.
Alpha Arenal features a single bedroom and bathroom, perfect for solo travellers or couples. Guests can enjoy a garden, terrace, and shared lounge, along with amenities like free parking, a coffee machine in every room, and free Wi-Fi. There's also a kitchen equipped with a fridge, microwave, and dishwasher, along with a table tennis table for some entertainment.
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